The dealer says my 2003 Jetta 1.8T needs new plugs and ignition coils. He wants $385.00 to do it. I see the parts are only about $160 so I thought I would try to do it myself. I have a shop manual and it says I need a special tool to remove the coils and plugs. If I really do then where can I find one? Also he wants $340.00 to replace the thermostat because he sees a "coolant code". I also should be able to do this for almost nothing. Any thoughts on these? I'm I heading for disaster? I have done quite a bit of engine work before but only on American cars. Thanks for any help.
RussT

 

Hi, I just replaced my plugs, wasn't hard at all. Remove the top engine cover, remove some of the bolts that hold dovn your ignitions wires(you don't have to remove all of them) and on the four cylinder remove bracket that holds your engine cover. The square rubber pops off by equal prying ontwo sides.The only reason you have to remove the bolts that hold down the wires is when you pull the plug wire off the plug it is about five inches long. Hope this helps. I never replaced the coils, so I can't help you there. Jack

 

Me again, I just went out and check my jetta and I wasn't completely right. All you have to do is remove the engine cover and the black box that covers the forth plug. Unplug the wires that go into each coil and pry them out. You have four coils that attach too your spark plugs, they are about five to six inches long. No special tools required. Jack